5 Things a New Encinitas Homeowner Can Do to Lower Their Energy Use

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No matter the time of year, people are always looking to reduce the amount of money they have to spend on utility bills. This can be especially frustrating for new Encinitas homeowners, as you will have to learn the ins-and-outs of how your home consumes energy.

Before you even begin unpacking boxes in your new Encinitas home, there are a few things you can do to significantly cut costs on your energy bill.

1. Check Your Insulation

If you have an attic in your new home, check the insulation as soon as you move in. A properly insulated attic can help keep out unwanted excess heat and prevent cool air from escaping, reducing the strain on your air conditioning unit. You should have about 6 inches of insulation surrounding your attic, and should be replaced immediately if it appears damaged or does not completely cover the surface of the attic.

2. Lower Your Hot Water Heater’s Temperature

While it may not sound like much, lowering the temperature of your hot water heater to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (55 degrees Celsius) could help you save a significant amount of money. Since most of us don’t use water that is hotter than that, the energy it costs to keep water at that temperature is wasted.

And while you’re adjusting the temperature on your water heater, consider buying a water heater blanket. This could help to contain the heat and prevent it from spreading out into your home.

3. Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a great low-energy way to keep air circulating throughout your home. A few ceiling fans will allow you to set your air conditioner a few degrees higher, and the savings could quickly add up.

4. Set up a Clothes Rack indoors, or Air Dry Laundry Outside

Clothes dryers are incredibly convenient, but consume a large amount of energy. They can also raise the temperature in your home, forcing your air conditioning unit to work harder. Setting up an indoor clothes rack, or an outdoor clothes line, to dry some of your clothes is an easy way to save some major money on your energy bill

5. Install Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Installing a few LED or CFL light bulbs in your new home can make a dramatic difference on your electric bill. These types of light bulbs last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and consume a fraction of the energy.

By Linda Moore

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